UK | Mars, Incorporated announced Dave Dusangh as Regional President for North America and Hans Bakker as Regional General Manager for its European Food and Nutrition business.
Dusangh and Bakker will report to Shahid Shah, the Global President of Mars Food and Nutrition, and will begin these roles immediately.
These appointments will build on the company's strong momentum and drive ongoing growth and innovation in the vibrant food and nutrition business.
“I am confident that Dave and Hans will continue to strengthen our business and brands, enhancing the value we deliver to our customers and consumers in their respective regions,” said Shah.
“Their appointments highlight our dedication to investing in talent as a fundamental enabler of strong business performance and our inspiring purpose: Better Food Today. A Better World Tomorrow. I look forward to working with them in their new capacities.”
Before becoming Regional President for North America, Dave Dusangh was the Regional General Manager (GM) for Mars Food and Nutrition Europe, driving transformation and growth in the region.
Dusangh started at Mars in 2011 with Mars Pet Nutrition Canada and moved on to lead Mars Food and Nutrition Canada in 2016. In 2018, he also became GM of TASTY BITE North America and joined the Board of Tasty Bite Eatables in India, a position he has continued to hold. He has expertise in customer relationships and team leadership.
In his new role leading, he will oversee brands, including BEN’S ORIGINAL, SEEDS OF CHANGE, and TASTY BITE.
"I am honoured to lead the Mars Food & Nutrition North American business and look forward to working with our talented Associates as we move towards accelerated growth,” said Dusangh.
"My focus will be on strengthening our position as a leader in the category and continuing to deliver delicious, convenient, and nutritious meals to meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers."
Hans Bakker has taken on the role of Regional General Manager for Mars Food and Nutrition Europe. The company's brand portfolio includes leading brands BEN’S ORIGINAL, DOLMIO, and SUZI WAN.
Bakker has worked for Mars for over 20 years. Since 2021, he has been Vice President of Global Transformation for Mars Food and Nutrition, where he has led transformational programs to drive growth and productivity across the company's 30 countries of operation.
Before his global role, Bakker worked in sales and marketing before becoming General Manager of Mars Food and Nutrition Germany. His ability to tackle complex challenges and develop talent has made him the ideal leader to continue the strong momentum in Europe.
“Europe is a vibrant and diverse region with rich cultures and culinary traditions. I cannot wait to work with our passionate associates across the region to drive growth for our customers, bring our purpose to life, and provide healthy, nutritious meals for our consumers,” said Bakker.
Mars Food and Nutrition has continued to deliver global growth through innovations from its best-known brands, including Ben's Original and Dolmio, and by acquiring fast-growing, trailblazing businesses such as Kevin’s Natural Foods. The focus has remained on providing healthy, tasty, and accessible food to all while protecting the planet and supporting its farmers.
